Supporting your Ukrainian guest

As a sponsor, the first thing to do will be to make sure your guests are comfortable in their accommodation and setup with the basics they need.

They should have enough food and essential supplies like toiletries, and it's worth checking they've got access to a mobile phone and the internet so they can stay in touch with family and friends. 

Your guest is unlikely to be familiar with the layout of your local area or how to get around easily.

Offer them practical advice on things such as:

• getting to and from your home 
• where the local shops are  
• where to catch buses and trains

As a sponsor, you're not expected to provide transport for your guests throughout their stay.

It would be helpful to direct your guests to public services.

For example, this could involve helping your guests to contact and register with a local GP and NHS dentist.

Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery; it's free to register.

You do not need proof of address or immigration status, ID or an NHS number. If you need help registering or filling in forms, call the GP surgery and let them know. 

You should help your guests adjust to life in the UK as much as you can.

Your guest will be able to access support from the council, such as finding school places, and for employment support Jobcentre Plus can help.

There may also be local voluntary groups that can offer support. 

If for any reason you need to end the sponsorship arrangement early, sponsors should inform the council as soon as possible by calling 01744 676789.